Outwater's
Militia

Reenacting the Revolutionary War militia in New Jersey.

Today's Outwater's Militia is a non-profit,
tax exempt 501 (C), educational/historical association dedicated to
recreating / reenacting the life and times of the soldiers and civilians
who served in the original company in the American War of Independence,
from 1777 to 1783. Outwater's also does lectures, parades and dedications.

The History of Outwater's Company

of New Jersey Militia, Bergen
County Regiment.

Captain John Outwater's Company of the Bergen County Militia Regiment was
one of twenty-five companies raised by Act of the New Jersey Assembly in
1776. However, due to the demoralizing retreat of the Continental Army
across New Jersey after the Fall of New York and the surrounding American
positions, it seems the Company did not actually form until early 1777.

When the Company was assembled in Hackensack, the Company elected its
Company Commanders: John Outwater as Captain; Adam Boyd, Lieutenant, and
Abraham Allen, Ensign. Outwater's Company one of several companies in the
Bergen County Militia Regiment, commanded by Colonel Theunis Dey.

The Company was composed of Jersey Dutch farmers and tradesmen who
attempted to protect their property from British foraging parties. Because
of the proximity to the British in New York City and the large Tory or
Loyalist population, Bergen County was dangerous for those in rebellion.
Unlike other militia, it was often unsafe for these men to return to their
homes. Because of this, the men of the Outwater's Company were often on
constant duty, much different from the men of New England. Raids into the
area from New York City and British held Paulus Hook (now Jersey City)
were frequent and often directed towards capturing militia men at home.
The militia tried to guard the roads amd rivers as much as possible.

When
not repelling raiders or invasions, the company concentrated on
interdicting Loyalist trade with the British in New York. Goods for the
British were often sent down the Hackensack River and the goods and
transporters would be seized by Outwater's men. The Justice of the Peace
would then award the goods to the captors. Sometimes Outwater's militia
guarded prisoners for the Sheriff.

In December 1780, the State legislature commissioned the company
Outwater's Company, New Jersey State Troops. State Troops were considered
a cut above militia; the comparative stability of their long-term
enlistment allowed them to be assigned more important and intensive
duties. They served as State Troops through 1781.

Some Engagements with the Enemy of Outwater's Militia

The burning of Hackensack and invasion of Bergen County, March 1780 -
Captain Outwater recieved a ball in his knee at this battle.

Bull's Ferry Blockhouse, June 1780

Moonachie Point, May 1781

Revolutionary War Re-enacting

Outwater's Militia is a member unit of the Brigade of the American
Revolution and The Continental Line.

Re-enacting breathes life into the past and Outwater's Company is the
perfect outlet for any history/military history buff. The unit receives
invitations from events all over the Northeast at a variety of historical
sites. From two-hundred year old forts to original battlefields, you get
to experience the past in a unique way. Imagine standing on the actual
battlefield site and being surrounded by hundreds of people in period
clothing with blue-gray smoke from the artillery and musket fire rolling
over the field. You feel like you are there in the past!

Outwater's Militia does not only provide this opportunity for just those
who wish to portray a soldier. Because of our affiliation with the Continental
Line and the Brigade of the
American Revolution (BAR) and the civilian aspect of being a
militia, there is something for women and children too, which is great for
those with families. Women can explore the impact of the Revolution on the
lives of women by portraying a campfollower, women who followed the armies
to be with their husband or as individuals trying to make some money as a
merchant, laundress, or hospital matron for the army. There are often
activities for children during which they learn how life in 18th. Century
would be like. Boys are encouraged to take to the field playing the drum
or the fife which would make it possible for commands to be heard above
the gunfire. Men who are more interested in civilian life can be involved
portraying a craftsmen or professional. See our SKILLS
web page. Family participation is easily worked into our efforts to
authentically portray the 18th. Century.

New members are helped every step of the way to getting started. There is
an abundance of resources available from the other members to get you
involved and settled in as soon as possible. New comers have at least one
year to get the basics together, and the unit will help with this also.
Outwater's Militia has been incorporated since 1979 and and the unit
carries its own insurance. Also, members receive publications from the
BAR: The Courier, a monthly newsletter with event information; The
Express, a quarterly magazine recapping the years events with
photographs and articles; The Dispatch, a scholarly journal with
research and interesting information on a variety of topics.

Getting Involved

Outwater's Company is always looking for more recruits. Our focus
is on a correct militia impression, using correct materials, styles and
equipment. Members are encouraged to learn about the Revolutionary War
period. Men at arms must be at least 18 years of age, or 16 if accompanied
by a parent. Younger boys can field as musicians. Families are encouraged
to participate. Skills of the period are praticed by several of our
civilian members. As stated above, the unit will assist you in getting
started, with the loan of equipment and clothing, and (of course), good
advice.

Outwater's meetings are held at historic sites throughout central NJ.
These will be posted on our schedule as they are arranged. We have an
annual meeting the weekend closest to Washigton's birthday in Feburary.
Traditionaly we tour a historic site on a Sunday afternoon, then have the
meeting at a historic tavern or Inn. The annual meeting is for elections
and scheduling. Other meetings are held at need during the year.
There are no other regular meetings, but we do usually spend a
weekend each month re-enacting.

Outwater's Militia is a TAX-EXEMPT 501 (c) charity. Some expenses
and all donations are tax-deductible. Ask your accountant or tax
preparer- and keep receipts!